If there’s chicken karaage on the menu, we will almost always order it. It is Japanese-style deep fried chicken served as an appetizer, side item or in a bento. As it turns out, making karaage at home is incredibly easy in an air fryer! Juicy chicken thigh pieces are marinated in a simple and tasty marinade, and tossed in potato starch, which creates a light crispy exterior when air fried. We love air fryer chicken karaage (Japanese fried chicken) with a hit of fresh lemon juice and dipped in Japanese mayo and shichimi togarashi chili pepper powder.
Related: Air Fryer Chicken Katsu is the Ultimate Comfort Meal
ingredients
To serve
directions
In a medium bowl, toss chicken, soy sauce, sake, mirin, ginger, salt and white pepper together. Marinate at least 30 minutes, ideally 3 to 4 hours up to overnight in the fridge for the best flavour.
Preheat air fryer at 390°F. Toss chicken pieces in potato starch and shake excess off.
If using parchment, place it in air fryer basket. Spray a thin layer of oil. Transfer chicken pieces into air fryer in single layer, not touching. I did this in two batches. Spray top with oil.
Air fry for 8 minutes. Flip, spray again with oil, and air fry another 6 to 8 minutes, or whenever internal temp is 165°F and exterior is golden brown. Make sure not to overcook so chicken is juicy. Rest on wire rack if doing batches.
Serve chicken karaage right away with mayo, togarashi (if using) and fresh lemon wedges. If reheating is needed, do it in the air fryer at 350°F until heated through.
